IT'S a nightmare scenario for parents. You're on holiday in a strange place, and your child is suddenly missing. You have to describe him or her to strangers or to police, or wait until you can fetch a photograph (if you have one with you) from your hotel.

Naturally, this takes time and you're frantic.

Fear not, one Bolton businessman is hoping to alleviate this possible situation, with a deceptively simple idea.

For £3.99, parents can buy a book of 60 personalised security stamps of their children. Each little sticker has a crisp, clear photo of your child. "It is better to be safe than sorry," explained businessman Mr Y K Raja.

The little stamps are also useful on children's medication (especially if they're taking it to school) or on other items like pencil cases, books and schoolbags, or for schools taking pupils on trips.

If you'd like to find out more about this clever idea, send for an information pack to: Visual Security International Ltd., House of Rajas, 14 Fletcher Street, Bolton BL3 6NF, tel. 01204-456977.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.